State Capitol Tours

The Capitol of Virginia was designed by Thomas Jefferson and constructed in 1788. It is over 215 years-old and is the second-oldest state capitol in continuous use in the United States of America. A picture of the original Capitol is to the right.

In 1791, the Bill of Rights was ratified in the Old House Chamber. Aaron Burr was also tried and acquitted of treason in the old House Chamber in 1807.

The Capitol also served as the Capitol of the Confederacy during the Civil War. General Robert E. Lee accepted his commission to head the Army of Northern Virginia in the Old House Chamber of the building.

In 1906, the Capitol Building was substantially modified by the adding of side wings and an $83 million renovation was completed in 2007. A picture of the new Capitol is to the left.

The Rotunda in the Capitol also features a life-sized status of the 44th District's most famous resident, George Washington, sculpted by Jean Antoine-Houdon. It is the only statue that George Washington modeled for during his lifetime.

Tour Information

Please note the new public entrance at Bank and 10th streets is handicapped accessible. Ramps and elevators are available to assist visitors with special needs to both the original 1788 Capitol and the 1906 wings.

Guided Tour Hours

Monday through Saturday 9:00am – 4:00pm (last tour at 4:00pm)

Sunday 1:00pm -4:00pm (last tour at 4:00pm)

Self-Guided Tours are available during operating hours each day.

If you are interested in a private tour of the State Capitol please contact Nadine Slocum, Senator Scott Surovell Surovell's legislative aide, at district36@senate.virginia.gov or 571.249.4484.